Sorry to hear about the HOA, we've never had to deal with one thank goodness, thats why I like rural living, livestock don't really care what you put in the yard.Been in my new (to me) mountain home since March. First time I can say I love the area I live in. Still going to have to move one more time, to get out from under the thumb of the HOA (long story), but it won't be far when it happens.
There's nothing like the feeling that you've finally found your home.